Food Plant Fire Upset To Trade

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31190, 14 October 1966, Page 19

Food Plant Fire Upset To Trade

(By Our Grocery Reporter)

Tuesday’s major fire at the Papanui plant of Sanitarium Health Foods came as a shock and a set-back to the grocery trade.

Sanitarium is one of the largest food processing organisations in New Zealand. Luckily the company has recently been increasing manufacturing in the North Island so production will not be so badly upset.

There could be some temporary shortages, but it is hoped the plant will be back in production soon.

Dried Apricots.— Last season South African dried fruit processors were permitted by their Government to use sulphur dioxide, a colour retainer. This and other techniques has improved dried fruit packs considerably. Almost a year has passed since the new techniques were introduced and the fruit has shown no signs of deterioration. South African dried apricot prices are competitive. There is a shortage of Australian dried apricots and it is possible that South Africa could get reasonably well established on the New Zealand market.

Cod Fillets.— Smoked cod fillets have been introduced to the market by South Pacific Fish Canneries, of Nelson. These fillets, packed in the traditional oval can, are expected to retail at 3s 9d for 14 dunces. So far no stocks are available in Christchurch.

Figs.— A recent report on Smyrna figs said serious rain damage had caused an estimated loss of 30 per cent of the crop. A sharp increase in price is likely. Figs from Smyrna are being shipped next week and should be in New Zealand late in November. This will be in plenty of time for the Christmas trade. -

Russian Canned Fish. —New season’s prices are now being quoted for Russian salmon. These compare favourably with Japanese and Canadian prices. However, with expected shortages in the popular grades, many importers have already purchased their main requirements. It seems the Russians have not had a full pack as orders are -subject to stocks being available. However. Russian crab meat is plentiful and is one of the best processed. Lack of import licence will curtail buying.